Brooklyn-based SMIT is developing new ways of gathering solar and wind energy by mimicking nature. The company's first product, called Solar Ivy, uses leaves made from recyclable polyethylene that are placed on the sides of buildings like ivy in order to gather sunlight. Also in the works is a product called GROW. Like Solar Ivy, GROW resembles ivy, but in addition to capturing sunlight it also creates kinetic energy when the leaves blow in the wind.

"Solar Ivy--a biomimetic form of ivy--is an extremely versatile system of modular components, which allows solar to go places that were previously inaccessible," SMIT's Samuel and Teresita Cochran told Dwell. "It's the first of many products we're developing that look toward the future of what a solar system on a home can be, and really improve the experience of how we live and interact with it. We're also working on a hybrid wind-and-solar panel that resembles ivy, which we're calling GROW. Both GROW and Solar Ivy have modular elements, which keeps manufacturing costs down, and allows for the designs to adapt to advances in solar technology."

Solar Ivy is expected to be available commercially starting in mid-October, while GROW is still in the testing phase. The Cochran's didn't reveal how much the products will cost, but it looks like they have big plans for their little idea. "I see our products covering and powering skyscrapers, stadiums, and homes all over the world."

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